For those who don't credit college soccer for continuing to develop young talent for Major League Soccer, look at these young talents who have stood out in the early stages of the MLS season-
* Zach Schilawski, New England - the Wake Forest University product became only the 3rd rookie in MLS history to record a hat trick in leading the Revs to a 4-1 victory over Toronto FC.
* Ike Opara, San Jose - another Wake Forest Deamon Deacon, the athletic defender scored in the 82nd minute to propel the Earthquakes to a 2-1 victory over Chicago.
* Seth Sinovic, New England - formerly of Creighton University, he has started at left back in each of New England's matches this season, giving the Revs two key young players that have infused some life into their lineup.
* Blair Gavin, Chivas USA - the rookie central midfielder out of Akron University has replaced Jesse Marsch in the Chivas USA midfield, and was a key contributor in their 2-0 victory over the previously unbeaten New York Red Bulls.
* Tim Ream, New York Red Bulls - the left-footed defender out of Saint Louis University has slotted into the center of the Red Bulls defense next to Mike Petke, and has become a key contributor in New York's good start to the 2010 season.
Tony Tchani (University of Virginia) and Connor Chinn (University of San Francisco) both came on as reserves for the Red Bulls.
* Zach Loyd, FC Dallas (University of North Carolina) started in the back for FC Dallas in their 2-2 draw with the Columbus Crew, and the versatile defender looks like he could play a variety of roles in the Dallas' defense.
Teal Bunbury (Akron University) has come on as a reserve up front for the Kansas City Wizards in each of their matches this season, both Wizards' victories.
Michael Stephens (UCLA) has appeared as a reserve in the Los Angeles Galaxy midfield this season, and has aided in their red-hot start.
What is really encouraging about this young group of early standouts is that for the exception of Bunbruy and Tchani, each of them had played at least 3 years of college soccer (with most of them having played all 4 years).
Clearly, when looking at bolstering an MLS roster, look no further than the college game...
It is The University of Akron. I have to say I often call it Akron U on my own blogs, and I work there, but then people write in and correct me. I just wish there were more games on tv.
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